STRINGS AMONG THE STARS
Waldorf Alumna Sarah Gillis Makes History in Space
In an awe-inspiring feat that reaches beyond Earth’s limits and today’s global chaos, Sarah Gillis, a 2012 graduate of Shining Mountain Waldorf School, made history by becoming the first person to play the violin in space.
Orbiting the Earth at over 17,000 mph aboard SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission, Sarah performed John Williams’ “Rey’s Theme” from Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Her music, drifting through the stars, wasn’t just a performance—it was a poignant reminder of the unity and wonder that humanity can create together.
But this magical moment didn’t end in space. It was a global collaboration with young musicians from El Sistema programs worldwide—from Venezuela to Uganda, the United States to Sweden. Their harmonies, downloaded from space via Starlink, symbolized hope and connection across borders, especially in a time of uncertainty. The concert raised funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and El Sistema, proving how art can heal and unite people.
Sarah’s journey to the stars has always been about blending music and science. From her early violin lessons with her mother to her studies at Shining Mountain Waldorf, she has always followed a path fueled by curiosity and creativity. Her encounter with NASA astronaut Joe Tanner during high school further ignited her passion for aerospace engineering, leading her to the Polaris Dawn mission. Sarah is a shining example of how independent thinking and artistic expression, values fostered by Waldorf education, can lead to groundbreaking achievements.
Her accomplishments don’t stop with her music. Sarah became one of the first two women to travel over 1,400 kilometers into space and the youngest to perform a spacewalk during the Polaris Dawn mission. Her journey has left an indelible mark not only in the realm of science but also in the hearts of those inspired by her artistic contributions.
As Sarah safely returned to Earth, her family, friends, and the world celebrated her extraordinary journey. Sarah Gillis reminds us all that, even in challenging times, the human spirit’s capacity for creativity, exploration, and collaboration continues to soar. She encourages us to reach for the stars, not just through science, but with the heart of an artist.
As a 1976 graduate of Green Meadow Waldorf School, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride watching Sarah Gillis achieve such an incredible milestone. Though we graduated decades apart, there’s a deep, shared connection between Waldorf students—a belief in the power of creativity, independent thought, and the blending of art and science. Sarah’s journey is not only a tribute to her brilliance but also a reminder of the values we hold dear as Waldorf graduates. Seeing her carry those values into space is a moment of immense pride, honoring her accomplishments and the spirit of our shared Waldorf education.
PUBLISHED THIS FALL
In a bold convergence of science and spirituality, Dr. Adrienne Wallace’s revolutionary invention, ChronoSync, unlocks the secrets of the soul’s journey, answering humanity’s greatest question: what happens when we die? This groundbreaking technology decodes hidden patterns within human DNA, delivering irrefutable proof of past lives and forever changing our understanding of existence.
As ChronoSync’s truth ripples across the globe, it sends shock waves through science, religion, and society. Yet, with discovery comes peril as it ignites ethical dilemmas, theological crises, and political power plays. Society grapples with new moral frontiers—karma, accountability, and the haunting question of whether we are truly responsible for the actions of our past life.
ChronoSync: Science of the Soul isn’t just a novel—it’s an invitation to explore the deepest mysteries of existence. Perfect for fans of metaphysical thrillers, this story will captivate your mind, touch your heart, and leave you questioning everything you thought you knew. Are you ready to discover what lies beyond?
